research studies

research studies » current studies

In 2008, Morris Animal Foundation will fund nearly 200 new and continuing studies for dogs, cats, horses, llamas/alpacas, and wildlife as well as more than 40 veterinary student projects.

We also have numerous studies nearing completion. You can search our current study database by species and/or disease to learn more about the studies we are funding in the areas you care most about. The results will also show you whether a study is available for sponsorship.

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Disease/Species



Study



D06ZO-084: Brucella-Caused Abortion and Parturition Sites/Ranges of Elk Across Winter Feeding Habits

principal investigator: W. Sue Fairbanks, Ph.D., Iowa State University

needs sponsorship

Year: 2 of 2. $20,129

Many diseases can pass between wildlife and domestic animals, causing serious implications for agriculture and interfering with wildlife management practices that promote a healthy environment. Brucellosis, a highly infectious disease, can cause spontaneous abortion in elk, bison and cattle and is easily transmitted between species through oral contact with tissues or fluids from births or abortions. Possibility of infection increases in late winter and early spring when elk are concentrated in feeding grounds. This study will compare the abortion and birthing rates of free-ranging elk with those that are dependent upon feeding grounds. Distribution and habitat characteristics of birth sites also will be investigated. The information will be used to develop management practices that would reduce the risk of disease transmission between elk and cattle.

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